Preparing for surgery and knowing what to expect afterward are essential parts of a successful recovery. At CalSpine MD, we provide customized pre- and post-operative instructions to help you get ready for your procedure and ensure the best possible outcome during your healing process.
While specific instructions may vary based on your condition and the type of surgery performed, the following guidelines cover what most patients can expect. Following these guidelines closely can reduce the risk of complications, improve your comfort, and support a smooth recovery.
Dr. Hieu Ball specializes in the surgical treatment of a range of spinal injuries, fractures, and conditions.
In order to provide the safest and best care for our surgical patients at CalSpine MD, we ask that all patients undergo a formal internal medicine consultation preoperatively.
A team of internal medicine specialists at the hospital will see you before your surgery and follow along daily throughout your postoperative hospitalization. In some cases, you might be asked to see a cardiologist to be sure that your heart is healthy enough to undergo the surgery.
Below are some important preoperative instructions you may need to follow, depending on the type of surgery you are scheduled for.
Anterior lumbar surgeries (low back surgery performed from the front or abdominal side) are performed with a co-surgeon who specializes in general or cardiac/vascular surgery.
Per his/her recommendations, all patients undergoing anterior lumbar surgery are required to have a bowel prep starting 2 days before surgery. This bowel prep is done for your safety, to enhance our ability to see better on the radiographs taken during your surgery, and to allow you to resume a regular diet more quickly after the surgery.
Preoperative tests and lab work need to be completed before surgery. Our staff will coordinate your preoperative consultations and your lab work.
Copies of all MRIs or other diagnostic tests should be dropped off at our office well in advance of your surgical date. If any additional tests need to be ordered, we will have the time to do so prior to surgery.
If these safety-directed preoperative protocols are not completed before your surgery, it may result in cancellation and postponement of your procedure.
After surgery, it is important to monitor your recovery closely and report any concerning symptoms. Please contact Dr. Ball’s office immediately if you experience any of the following:
Routine antibiotics are not typically necessary after surgery, but may be prescribed if there are signs of a superficial or early incisional infection.
Recovery after spine surgery requires careful attention to your body’s needs and activity level. Below you will find post-operative instructions for each type of surgery we perform.
Lumbar Decompression / Discectomy / Spinal Cord Stimulator Implant:
A lumbar brace should be worn whenever you are upright—this includes sitting, standing, and walking. You do not need to wear it while lying down or reclining. The brace can be removed for showers. Wear the brace for 2–4 weeks, then remove as tolerated.
Cervical Disc Replacement (CDR):
You will be fitted with a soft cervical collar. This is typically worn for 2 to 4 weeks following surgery and may be removed as tolerated.Â
Cervical Fusion (ACDF):
A hard cervical collar must be worn at all times for 6 weeks. The collar should only be removed for showering, during which you must keep your neck supported and avoid sudden movements.
Lumbar Fusion / Lumbar Disc Replacement:
Similar to decompression procedures, you will wear a lumbar brace when sitting or walking. Remove the brace while lying down and during showers. For lumbar fusions, the brace is typically worn for 6 weeks unless otherwise instructed.
Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Fusion:
No brace is required for this procedure.
General Guidelines (All Surgeries):
Cervical Surgeries (CDR and ACDF):
SI Joint Fusion:
Limit weight-bearing on the side of surgery to 50% for 3–4 weeks. After that, you can begin gradually increasing activity as tolerated.
Physical therapy generally begins around 6 weeks after surgery, unless directed otherwise by Dr. Ball.
Initial Goals (All Surgeries):
After surgery, you may resume a regular diet, but it is common to experience a reduced appetite or mild nausea. Take over-the-counter laxatives as needed:
Drink plenty of water and eat foods rich in protein, calcium, and fiber to support healing and bowel health.
After cervical surgery, stick to soft, moist foods until swallowing feels comfortable.
General Guidelines (All Surgeries):
Contact our office immediately if you notice:
Your first follow-up appointment will be scheduled 10–14 days after surgery, either with Dr. Ball or one of our physician assistants. You will need to bring updated X-rays to this appointment, based on your procedure:
We will review your healing progress and answer any questions about your recovery, activity restrictions, or return to work.
Your comfort, safety, and recovery are our top priorities. With Dr. Ball’s extensive expertise in spine surgery and patient care, you can feel confident that you are in skilled and experienced hands throughout the entire process.
If you have any questions about your preoperative preparation or post-operative care, do not hesitate to reach out.
To schedule a consultation, please call CalSpine MD at (925) 838-8830. You may also request an appointment online.
